This week’s panelists were asked to imagine what would happen when Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev shared a ring.
Gary Logan (Coach)
A dream fight: formidable boxer and formidable boxer. Bivol’s style and head movements pose problems for Beterbiev because he doesn’t have to face a man as skilled as Bivol as a professional. The problem for Bivol is that Beterbiev is a better boxer than credence and hits very hard on the head and body. I could see Beterbiev stopping late or Bivol producing boxing displays for the ages. If I bet, I go Beterbiev.
Chris Billam-Smith (European cruiser class champion)
One of the wars of our generation. I think, if I had to choose, I would choose Bivol by points. I think his footwork and concentration keep him out of trouble by knocking out Beterbiev’s shots. Bivol doesn’t give away much and he punches too long for Beterbiev to get close.
Ryan Walsh (British featherweight champion)
Beterbiev is a monster but this is a better boxer and boxer, more skilled and disciplined than Bivol. My heart says it will be a Beterbiev KO but my head tells me that Bivol is going to make a great boxing show.
Joe Gallagher (Coach)
Bivol is taking the lead at the right time while the current Beterbiev’s have been out of action for a bit because of that injury. He has to get past Anthony Yarde first, but, provided he does, it’s a really good fight. I feel it’s a case of one fighter on his way up and the other on his way down. You can’t rule out Beterbiev because of his punching prowess but Bivol’s all-round boxing skills are enough to win.
